What is Mercury Poisoning?

Also known as quicksilver, mercury (Hg) was once thought to heal broken bones and prolong life. Today, this chemical element is known to be a dangerous neurotoxin. Mercury poses a range of serious health risks including kidney damage, memory loss, and even death. From burning fossil fuels to eating contaminated swordfish and tuna, learn about the causes of mercury poisoning and how regulating use could prevent future risk.

What is mercury poisoning? Mercury is a chemical element found in the earth's crust. Mercury is also a neurotoxin. In humans, mercury poisoning damages the central nervous system, kidneys, and brain, and can lead to birth defects. People are exposed to mercury in three main ways: Burning coal and other fossil fuels that release mercury into the atmosphere … Eating contaminated fish and shellfish ... And in small-scale gold mining where miners use mercury to separate gold from rock and sediment. This dangerous type of mining is practiced by millions of individuals around the world. Regulating mercury use and emissions can help reduce the number of people who suffer from mercury poisoning.

What is Mercury Poisoning?

Also known as quicksilver, mercury (Hg) was once thought to heal broken bones and prolong life. Today, this chemical element is known to be a dangerous neurotoxin. Mercury poses a range of serious health risks including kidney damage, memory loss, and even death. From burning fossil fuels to eating contaminated swordfish and tuna, learn about the causes of mercury poisoning and how regulating use could prevent future risk.